AFRISAM -SAIA Award 2017/2018

We call on all practitioners who share our vision to enter the AfriSam-SAIA Award for Sustainable Architecture + Innovation – and bring a better future to lives.

Entries accepted in four categories:

Sustainable Architecture

Research in Sustainability

Sustainable Products and Technology

Sustainable Social Programmes

Apart from recognising excellence in Sustainable Architecture and Research in Sustainability, we also invite entries that make innovative contributions to the fields of Sustainable Products and Technology and Sustainable Social Programmes. We have entered a new era, one in which sustainable design has to be a prerequisite and integral part of the building industry. We believe that collaboration between all stakeholders is the only way to bring sustainable innovation to our living environments. Through an integrated approach to communities, planning, design, architecture, building practice, natural systems, and technology we can create a world that benefits all living creatures. With energy-efficiency legislation waiting in the wings, sustainable architecture has become an inevitable requirement.

The South African Institute for Architects recognises the importance of “green” building and encourages their members to incorporate sustainability in building design at an early stage. As a leading producer of construction materials in southern Africa, AfriSam is committed to sustaining the environment through responsible manufacturing processes. The brand considers it an honour to be associated with the South African Institute of Architects in recognising outstanding achievement in sustainable architecture. Projects are located on a trajectory towards regenerative whole systems design.

“Through an integrated approach to communities, planning, design, architecture, building practice, natural systems and technology we can create a world that benefits all living creatures.”

This award supports a learning journey towards regenerative design. We believe that a sustainable world is possible through innovation and collaborative effort.

Project entries should demonstrate how they embody sound sustainable practices, that bear the hallmarks of great architectural or social design and innovative thinking in the field of sustainability, to improve our world.

Apart from recognising excellence in Sustainable Architecture and Research in Sustainability, we will also consider entries that make innovative contributions to the fields of Sustainable Products and Technology and Sustainable Social Programmes. We are looking for innovative solutions that comply with the following four criteria:

Harmonisation│Do the design and related processes harmonise the use of resources with the conservation and strengthening of ecosystems (natural, social, human, financial, and infrastructure)?

People Upliftment│Do the design and related processes address the dignity of people through the creation of a socio-economic environment that is inclusive, humane, self-sustaining, maximises the financial viability, and acknowledge lifecycle cost efficiency during and after the implementation process?

Placemaking Performance│Do the design and related processes enhance the architectural landscape and contextual urban environment including contributing to the qualitative human experience of place?

Before submitting an entry, please assess the project in the trajectory of regenerative design and development – the achievements, gaps /obstacles, potential, and leverage points. Successful operation and cultural adequacy of the entry will be fundamental to the appraisal process.

How to enter

With energy efficiency legislation waiting in the wings, sustainable architecture has become an inevitable necessity.

2017/18 entries can only be submitted on our online entry system.

More than one project may be submitted. A separate entry must be completed for each separate submission.

Eligibility and entry requirements are unique to each respective category. Entrants should acquaint themselves with each category’s specifications.

There is no entry fee.

Eligibility

Entries for the AfriSam-SAIA Award for Sustainable Architecture & Innovation are to be submitted for consideration by 00:00 on 28 March 2018 via the online submission platform. No late entries will be accepted.

Projects completed and beneficially occupied by 24 March 2017 are eligible for entry in the AfriSam-SAIA Award for Sustainable Architecture & Innovation 2017/2018. Research, social programmes as well as technology and products of social importance, which fall in an area under the description of sustainable architecture and design can also be entered. Only entries by SAIA members located in South Africa are eligible for submission in Category A: Sustainable Architecture.

Projects outside South Africa, which do not require in loco inspection, may be submitted in Categories B: Research in sustainability; C: Sustainable product/technology; and D: Sustainable social programmes.

Please note that the awards are conferred on the building/s or work, not on the author/s, professional team, client, or contractor – although the names of the architectural practice and client will appear on the award certificates.

OrganizerS

AfriSam is a leading supplier of superior quality construction materials and technical solutions. Our cement, aggregate and readymix concrete construction materials have been contributing significantly to infrastructure development in Africa over the last 80 years.

The South African Institute of Architects and the Regional Institutes are committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and competence.

Any member of the Institute, as defined in the Constitution, is required to uphold and subscribe to these objectives, and within the built environment, strive to improve the standards of health and safety for the protection and welfare of all members of society and to enhance with their professional skills, the natural environment to the benefit of all.

Members of the Institute, registered as professional architects, are educated and trained to provide leadership, critical judgement, specialist knowledge, skills and aptitude, for the design and development of the built environment.

Code of Ethics establish principles for the conduct of members in pursuance of these goals.